Lithuanian coalition talks begin in Brussels as Social Democrats push for policy changes

Lithuania’s Social Democratic Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius has launched coalition negotiations with the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” and the “Homeland Union–Lithuanian Christian Democrats” in Brussels, aiming to finalise a new government program and cabinet structure within days, LRT reports.

Talks between the three party leaders—Sinkevičius, Democratic Union chief Virginijus Sinkevičius, and “Homeland Union” leader Aurelijus Veryga—began unusually outside Lithuania, as the latter two currently serve as Members of the European Parliament. Sinkevičius confirmed that official negotiations will shift to Vilnius on Wednesday, with a full coalition meeting planned for Thursday to solidify a parliamentary majority.

The Social Democratic leader emphasised that the new government’s policy priorities would shift toward social issues, family support, and youth assistance. “The content will change—not just the faces,” he stated, adding that details would be clarified by the end of the week. While no specific cabinet appointments were discussed, Sinkevičius noted that vacancies left by the departing “Nemunas Dawn” party would be offered to new coalition partners. Potential internal reshuffling within the existing parties’ portfolios remains under consideration.

Sinkevičius acknowledged that negotiations would proceed more smoothly if the Brussels-based leaders—Virginijus Sinkevičius and Veryga—returned to domestic politics. “Of course it would be easier,” he said, half-jokingly urging them to “come back to Lithuania and take responsibility for their agreed positions.” He also expressed satisfaction with the performance of non-partisan ministers, including Energy Minister Žygimantas Vaičiūnas and Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, despite some “mixed assessments” of the latter within his party.

With the spring parliamentary session likely to be extended, Sinkevičius stressed the need for swift agreement to avoid prolonged uncertainty.